President's Corner

Last week I had the great opportunity to sit on a panel about leadership for our Young Professional Network. In addition to me, there was Councilwoman and Attorney, Rebecca Obarski and Little Friends President, Mike Briggs. We all had a different take on leadership, however when all was said and done, we all agreed that being a leader is earned, not given. The following is something I shared with the group about lessons I’ve learned regarding leadership. I hope you find it valuable.

What I’ve learned about leadership:

Leadership isn’t being a boss, it’s being a student.

Leadership isn’t about telling people what to do, it’s about listening to what they can do.

Leadership isn’t about showing what you’ve got, it’s hiring what you need.

Leadership isn’t about making the right decisions, it’s also making the hard decisions.

Leadership isn’t blaming when something doesn’t go right, it’s about acknowledging those that contribute to making something right and owning when it doesn’t.

Leadership isn’t about building yourself, it’s about building others which ultimately builds oneself. You get what you give.

Leadership isn’t about doing great things, it’s inspiring others to do great things.

Leadership isn’t just about courage, it’s about encouraging.

Leadership isn’t just about vision, but getting others to see it, believe it and working to achieve it.

Leadership isn’t just about passion, it’s being passionate about the people you work with.

Leadership isn’t just about getting through the storm, it’s about handling it with calm.